WPL Statement on COVID-19

In today’s changing landscape under the COVID-19 crisis, it is no secret that many of the things we love are not available to us, and that includes the game of rugby. Our hearts go out to all of our fellow ruggers whose seasons’ have been cut short, canceled, or postponed. Especially our sisters with National Team aspirations, both members of the 7s and 15s teams. You were all working tirelessly to earn a spot to represent the USA this year, some of you chasing the rare opportunity to represent us all at the 2020 Olympics. It was a heavy day for each and every one of us to learn that the chase for your Olympic dream was postponed.

Knowing and respecting that this pandemic impacts more than our opportunity to play the game that we love, we wanted for one moment to say to each and every one of you: we all see the hard work you have been putting in, a postponement doesn’t diminish that. The dream and chase is not over, the date is just different. Regardless, we are so incredibly proud of you, and thank you deeply for representing us all with honor and grace, always, but especially now.

We are also very aware that many of you are currently working on the front lines. We are all so appreciative of you and the sacrifices that you are making day in and day out. Thank you to all of the health care workers, grocery store workers, supply chain specialists, janitors, Fire, Police, sanitary workers, and so many more.

We are closely monitoring the progression of COVID-19 and are discussing the potential impact this may have on our Fall 2020 season. We will keep our WPL community in the know as developments arise. Our members’ safety is our top priority, and will always make decisions through that lens. We encourage the buy in of social distancing, and hope all of our members are acting with the safety of not only themselves in mind, but also their broader communities.

As a community, we are all resilient. We know this, because the game demands that of us. One of the most amazing things about rugby is the community and support system that are built through all of our relationships. To everyone impacted by this pandemic, on and off the rugby pitch, our thoughts are with you, we will get through this together. Now, more than ever is when we need to lean on our communities (virtually of course) and raise each other up.

This is an opportunity to continue to strive to be the best versions of ourselves, through this crisis and beyond. Our actions today, and how we show up in the light of these challenges is what will define us. We believe that the entire rugby community will rise to face this challenge no different than any other opponent who threatens to slow us down or stop us: with unrelenting resilience and go forward. Please take the time for yourselves. Take time for your mental health, check in on friends and family, connect with your communities in ways that are safe.